Sport and Exercise Medicine part time masters student at University of Leeds

Rob Parkinson

What is your current profession?

Senior Physiotherapist at Gloucester Rugby, previously worked with England Rugby League.

Why did you choose to come to Leeds University to study Sport and Exercise Medicine?

I know Leeds very well so the geography was definitely a bonus. The structure of this course seemed too good to be true, however it really does work for me and fits perfectly around my work commitments. The University of Leeds has fantastic facilities supported by a strong faculty and external speakers.

What are your expectations of the course?

I want to develop my clinical skills and increase my knowledge of sport related injuries and pathologies and how to assess, treat and manage them.

What have been the highlights of the course so far?

The external speakers have been excellent so far, the time you get with SEM consultants is really impactful. The facilities are outstanding along with the academic teaching. Both the MSk clinics and field based placement opportunities have been excellent along with the support you receive from the University in organising them.

Tell us about your field based placement experience so far.

Working behind the scenes at Cheltenham Races following and caring for the jockeys on and off the course gave me a unique insight to medical management at a massive event and all the logistical/medical considerations that need to be accounted for.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I want to progress my career as a working clinician, researcher and educator and I believe that this course will more than help me to achieve this.